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Whenever a car’s dashboard “check engine” light comes on, the car should be inspected by certified mechanics to locate the problem. Similarly, when a person experiences a problem in getting or keeping an erection of the penis, he should go to a physician to check for the cause of the problem.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is another name for impotence. Dr. Francis Williams, a Guyanese Urologist at The Brooklyn Hospital Center (TBHC), said that ED is an inability to have an erection. He said that people used to think that ED sufferers were old men, but it has been discovered that it also affects young men.

The causes of ED in men could be psychological, the effect of physical diseases, medications, or substance abuse.
The most common psychological problems are caused by stress, anxiety, fatigue and depression. Lack of interest, resentment, or hostility between partners could be a major factor in ED.

Diabetes and atherosclerosis could also cause ED. “Atherosclerosis has to do with blood circulation which is a part of erection.  It affects people with high cholesterol. Excess cholesterol forms plaques which line the arteries making them narrower, restricting the blood flow to the penis, heart and kidneys and the brain,” said Dr. Williams.  Atherosclerosis could also affect men who have high blood pressure. Men with atherosclerosis could also suffer heart attacks, kidney failure and strokes.

There are different treatments available for ED. Oral medications could be used to increase the blood flow to the penis. Three drugs: Viagra, Cialis and Levitra are available at the pharmacy. These tablets need a prescription. People who are using nitrate medications, such as heart drugs, nitroglycerin (NGT), Imdur or Isosorbidide (isordil) should not use any of the three drugs. The combination of the nitrates and the medication for ED could cause dizziness, low blood pressure, and circulation and heart problems.

There is another method to prevent ED. It is called MUSE. A pellet about half the size of a grain of rice is used in this procedure. The pellet is inserted into the urethra, and it is absorbed by the erectile tissue in the penis, increasing the blood flow which causes an erection.

There is also an injection therapy for ED sufferers. A drug is injected into the base or side of the penis which could produce an erection. There is also a vacuum device for ED sufferers.  This treatment involves the use of an external vacuum. This pump is available by prescription. A penile implant surgery is the last resort for men with ED.

ED is now treatable for all ages. “Boy you have to hang up your gloves now”, is no longer valid when men who are in their sixties can’t sustain an erection. They must visit a doctor or urologist and be open with their problems. Dr. Williams said that people, especially Guyanese patients, are reluctant to discuss these types of problems with their doctors. ED is now treatable and people could improve their marriage life.

A wide range of drugs, including antidepressants, antihistamines and medications to treat high blood pressure, pain and prostate cancer could cause ED by interfering with the blood flow to the penis. Chronic use of alcohol, marijuana and other drugs could also cause ED and decreased sexual drive.
Men who have just had a heart attack or heart surgery could resume an active sex life. They should talk to their cardiologist about when they can resume sexual activity.

TBHC has a Urology Department staffed with several Urologists. Patients who need to learn more about the Urology department should visit the website: http://www.tbh.org/ or call (718)250-6880 for an appointment

   Dr. Francis Williams